We asked Wurundjeri elders and community members, including those affected by the October 2022 floods, to share their stories of the river. These stories reflect the people, interests and experiences of the community that lives, works and plays in the area around Maribyrnong River.
This project is part of the Community Recovery Program supporting community following the October 2022 floods through projects and events which promote community connection, capacity building and emergency preparedness. The Community Recovery Program is funded by the Victorian Government and Commonwealth Government.
Content warning: These audio stories contain descriptions of a natural disaster. Please consider if this content is appropriate for you. If you experience distress, please phone Lifeline on 13 11 14, or Beyond Blue 1300 224 636.
Ecology and environment
The things I hear
Steele Creek
Angela, local resident and Education & Operations Lead at Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association, reveals the sounds and sensations that make up her backyard: where Steele Creek and Maribyrnong River meet.
Good to be out among it
Canning Reserve
We listen in as Logan, Teresa and Kevin, members of community group Moonee Valley Sustainability, participate in a clean up along the river near Canning Reserve. It is time to catch up and socialise, but also a chance to reflect on the beauty of the natural environment.
It’s just too important
Maribyrnong River
This is a story about the importance of healthy waterways. Shared by Nikki, operations and advocacy manager for Maribyrnong River and Waterways Association, it is a passionate call to arms to not let it all go to waste.
Flood recovery and resilience
When the water rose
Woods St, Ascot Vale
Residents of Woods St, John, Terry and Renato, share their experiences from the morning of October 14th, 2022, when the Maribyrnong River rose and flooded their homes. It is a story of community and the importance of connection.
After the water receded
The Esplanade, Maribyrnong
Madeleine’s life changed in an hour and a half early on October 14th, 2022. Now the president of Maribyrnong Catchment Resilience Association, she tells the story of how she became an unlikely champion for her community, while experiencing the loss and destruction of her home.
Regrowth and renewal
Canning Reserve and Rivervue
Karen was one of the many residents of Rivervue to be impacted by the 2022 flood. In this story, she walks along the river pointing out the many ways the community is trying to reclaim and restore the natural environment.
Community groups and public use
I'm doing this for Mum
Coulson Gardens
When Leigh Philpot was first diagnosed with breast cancer, her daughter, Lauren, knew she wouldn’t take the news lying down. And so began the fundraising group, The Leigh Leighs. Years on, Lauren continues the work her mum started, and shares her story of the community support she has received.
Just a part of the landscape
Maribyrnong River
Representatives from three local businesses, Andrew (Poynton’s), Steve (The Boathouse), and Rowan (Angler’s Tavern), talk about the history of their places along the Maribyrnong River. Welcoming patrons for decades they all offer spaces for the community to meet, while away the hours, and share their lives.
Documented history
As it flows
Maribyrnong River
Peter Somerville OAM reflects on 45 years of running Blackbird Cruises along the Maribyrnong. He recalls some of his favourite stories and considers the changes he has seen in the area during that time.
The all conquering lady rowers
Essendon Rowing Club, The Boulevard, Moonee Ponds
Told by Essendon Rowing Club’s resident historian, Glenn, we hear the story of the Essendon Ladies Rowing Club, a team that tasted success throughout its history, including bringing home Victoria’s first National Championship. The Ladies crew dominated through the years, until shifting priorities and a senseless act of arson led to their demise.
From the producer
Through Maribyrnong River Stories I have tried to capture the place and its people at this moment in time. You’ll hear about their love for the river and the challenges it poses living near it. You’ll hear stories of community, history, resilience, and a commitment to preserve the things that make the river as an important part of western Melbourne as the people that live and play along its shores.
Thank you to the people included in this project for sharing their stories, and to Moonee Valley City Council for trusting me to bring them to life.
Sam Loy is a documentary maker, podcast and radio producer. Check out some of his work at Sam Loy | Podcast & Documentary Producer